William Thomas (Tom) Lawrence, 66 of Ormond Beach, FL, a sixth-generation Floridian, died peacefully at home on Thursday, April 10, 2014. He was born in Daytona Beach on Feb. 10, 1948.

Known simply as "Coach" to many, Tom taught physical education at Tomoka Elementary for 34 years before retiring in 2006. He was a 1966 graduate of New Smyrna Beach High School where he was an area all-star basketball player and later went on to earn his masters degree at Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C. He enjoyed the outdoors, fencing, volunteering at Tomoka State Park, traveling, checking items off of his bucket list and, most importantly, spending time with his grandson, Henry.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Carol Ten Broeck Lawrence, of the home; daughter, Nichole (Julian) Kain of California; son, Adam, of Colorado; grandson, Henry Happy Kain; brother, Dr. Happy James Lawrence, of North Carolina; numerous friends, family members and members of his wife's family who loved him like a brother.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Happy O. and Mildred H. Lawrence of New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Services will be held Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at Lohman's Funeral Home Ormond Beach, 733 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach, FL 32174. Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. followed by services at 6 p.m. In the spirit of celebration, the family asks that those attending the service to wear Tomoka colors, red and white, and to bring your favorite stories of Tom.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to: American Cancer Society. Arrangements are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Ormond.